3/20/2018 2:13:59 AM - Evolution picked as one of the TOP 10 Jazz Releases of 2009 by Jazz
journalist Gene Seymour. “Gordon’s gorgeous tone, solid center of
gravity and quicksilver facility on the saxophone were never in question
from the time he won the prestigious Monk competition in 1996. What has
gone relatively unnoticed, however, are his considerable gifts as a
composer and bandleader; all of which get their most formidable display
on this ambitious, varied blend of pieces for large ensemble, duo (with
pianist Bill Charlap) and string section. Each piece, no matter what its
design or tactics, braces you with a dual charge of broadening
possibilities and heightened stakes. The effort alone reinforces one’s
certainty that jazz, in whatever form or venue, has a future for anyone
who isn’t afraid to issue or take a dare.”

Evolution picked as
one of the top Jazz c.d’s released in 09 by Jazz Journalist Neil Tesser-
“On his inspiring Evolution (ArtistShare), Jon Gordon places his
piquant alto in settings that range from sax-piano duo to string trio to
chamber jazz ensemble, in a tour-de-force from an under-the-radar
master.”

The Jazz Journal-"Evolution was one of the Best Jazz Records of 2009"- Brian Morton

Evolution picked as one of the Top Jazz Releases of 09 by the Penguin Guide to Jazz.

All About Jazz Italy- Evolution rated 4+1/2 stars out of 5.

The term "chamber jazz" seems inadequate to describe the brilliant
music on the new CD by saxophonist Jon Gordon. Aside from the rhythm
section, there are horns and strings, all beautifully arranged by
Gordon and trombonist Alan Ferber, but the album still manages to be
far more subversive than the word "chamber" would suggest. The
instrumentation is just the right combination for compositions that
surprise the listener at every turn. Gordon's title tune is an absolute
knock out, with horns snaking their way through as strings build in the
background. Part of the album's charm lies in its dynamics. Following
the grandeur of "Evolution," Gordon slows down for a sinuous sax solo,
paired with the excellent pianist, Bill Charlap. Several cuts feature
the gorgeous vocalese of Kristin Berardi blending right into the
instruments. The other players contribute greatly to what is clearly a stunning ensemble
recording. - Rochester City Paper, Ron Netsky

Evolution is “rich in texture and full of great ideas. Highly Recommended!”- Paul Blair- Hot House Magazine.

“Evolution
sparkles with mature ideas, unbridled creativity, and soul-searching
profundity. There is also polished musicianship throughout. This is
where the special quality of the music of this record lies—that it is
not just built on an edifice of ideas suggested by its title, but on the
superb development and delivery of these through an extravagantly aural
suite...” - All About Jazz

“A luminous new album”.... Nate Chinen- NY TIMES

“A
Lovely work. This music sings and leaves the listener enthralled...
This program is serious yet alive with possibilities.... a highly
individualized statement of purpose, of growth as a composer, arranger
and orchestrator.- Richard Kamins- The Hartford Courant

Jon Gordon, “Evolution” (ArtistShare). This is a sterling record by Gordon.- The Buffalo News

Jon's
previous release, "Within Worlds", selected as one of the Best Jazz
releases in 08, and as one of the the Best of the past decade by Down
Beat Magazine.

Various

"Jon is one of the greatest alto players ever"

-- Phil Woods

"Gordon has embraced the history of his instrument, carrying with it the ability to extend music as a universal language"